Have you just finished mopping your house but are absolutely clueless as to how you’re going to clean your mop? Don’t worry, it’s quite simple!
Read on to learn how to refresh your mop after cleaning and discover some phenomenal tips and tricks to keep in mind. So let’s get started!
Steps to Clean a Mop Head Effectively
Cleaning a dirty mop head is a crucial step in the process of ensuring the hygiene and cleanliness of your space. Studies show that mop heads carry over eight to ten million bacteria. Just imagine your floors being that dirty!/im
Here is a straightforward, step-by-step guide to cleaning the mop head easily.
1. RINSE:
Before you do anything, it’s important to rinse the mop head with hot water to get rid of any loose dirt, dust particles, or grime that may get stuck between the fibers.
2. WASH:
Now, it’s time to wash your mop. If you have a fixed mop head, add dish detergent to a bucket filled with hot water and lather the mop with it. Make sure to get every grimy area to enable a careful and meticulous cleaning session.
However, if you have a detachable mop head, dump it into your washing machine or dishwasher and start washing it.
3. SOAK IN BLEACH OR DISINFECTANT:
Next, grab your bucket and mix hot water and bleach or a good-quality disinfectant to prevent bacteria growth and kill germs. Allow it to soak in this mixture for about 10 minutes.
4. WRING IT:
After you’ve finished soaking your mop, proceed to wring out all the dirty water and disinfectant. A good rule of thumb is to do so until it stops dripping. This will reduce puddles and make air drying so much easier.
5. AIR DRY YOUR MOP:
Keep the mop upright and let it dry on your balcony or in a warm area.
Use the Vinegar Method to Clean Your Mop
Vinegar has long been considered a terrific cleaner due to its ability to extract grease, grime, odors, and stubborn stains that stay put on an array of surfaces. Here’s how you can clean your mop with vinegar in four simple steps:
Mix a cup of white vinegar in a gallon of hot water and stir until it’s mixed evenly.
Then, soak your mop in the vinegar solution for a few minutes.
After you’re done, remove the mop and rinse the mop head until the water runs clear.
Finally, dry the mop like you usually would, and voila! Your mop head is clean and free of odors and grime!
Storing Your Mop the Right Way
Storing your mop head is equally as important as washing it when it comes to prolonging it’s useful life.
Ideally, you should select a spot that’s both cool and dry. Think of a place like a utility closet or a laundry room. Just keep it away from sinks, your bathroom, and other areas that have a tendency to get wet.
Before you put your mop away, check that it’s fully dry. If you store your mop while it’s damp or wet, it may develop a strong stagnant odor that can spread across your rooms and make your entire house smell bad too. This is because moisture is like a breeding ground for bacteria.
To make sure it’s dry, leave it out in the sun or in a well-ventilated area. Maintain an upright position, as this will help the mop head retain its shape and keep it upside down to prevent dirt and bacteria from your floor from getting back onto it.
Signs That You Should Replace Your Mop Head
Even though you might be properly maintaining your mop, there will come a time when you’ll have to bid it farewell. Here are some tell-tale signs that your mop is breathing its last breaths:
Wear and Tear
Consider thoroughly examining your mop and checking if it’s are frayed and worn out. If they are, it’s probably a sign that your mop isn’t as effective as it used to be. This is because frayed edges can’t pick up dirt and grime properly.
Bad Smell
If you notice a fetid smell coming from your mop head even though you’ve just washed it, you may need to replace it. That’s because the lingering bacteria can’t be killed no matter how thorough of a wash you give it.
In this case, it’s best to start afresh with a new one, as reviving your old one would be a lost cause.
Discoloration
Has your mop head lost its color?
Sometimes, mops that have been used for a significant period of time tend to trap dirt that can’t be cleaned out. This causes them to appear grey or brown. So, it’s best if you replace it.
Decreased Absorption
Another factor that could portend the need to change your mop head is a decline in its ability to absorb spills.
A new mop head will be much more efficient at tackling puddles. Now you’ll be able to walk in your house in a safe manner.
Stiffness
The final sign that could mean that your mop needs to be replaced is its stiffness. Sometimes mops can get clogged with grime or soap scum, which causes it to be more rigid. This makes it difficult for them to glide effortlessly across the floors of your home and ensure a clean sweep.
Remember, keeping your floors clean is important for the overall hygiene of your home. So, stay vigilant, check your mops, and identify the best time to replace them.
Let’s Wrap It Up
We have finally reached the end of this guide to cleaning mops in a proper manner and understanding when it’s time to replace them.
Remember, if you use the tips we’ve mentioned and follow the steps we’ve provided, you’ll be well on your way to making the cleaning process easier, more practical, and, above all, hygienic.
However, using clean mops isn’t the only thing you are supposed to rely on. Many people recommend using commercial cleaning tools like vacuum cleaners and handheld automated mops to ensure additional efficiency.
But if you aren’t too keen on cleaning your house yourself, it’s best if you turn to house cleaning services instead. They can get your space to look neater and tidier than ever in a jiffy!
